CINCINNATI -- Sunny Delight Beverages Co. (SDBC) said it is partnering with Dr Pepper Snapple Group on the national launch of SDBC's new Sparkling Fruit2O fruit-flavored water.
Sparkling Fruit2O contains no calories, sugar, carbohydrates or caffeine.
Following a limited distribution in the Northeast, Sparkling Fruit2O has seen a positive response both from consumers and retailers, SDBC said. As a result of this initial success, as well as rapid growth within the sparkling water category (more than 37% vs. year ago), SDBC is taking the brand national with its direct-store distribution (DSD) partners.
"DPS is an outstanding distribution partner. We are both proud and honored to be working with them, along with our other distribution partners, to roll out Sparkling Fruit2O nationally," said Russ Mills, director of instant consumption sales at SDBC. "There is room for growth in the sparkling water category, both for new brands and new flavors, and SDBC intends to be part of that growth."
"Consumers want simplicity. They are seeking a trusted brand that can deliver the great tasting, zero-calorie flavors and bubbles they want without all the hype. By meeting this consumer need, we plan to help grow the entire flavored water segment," said Ed Klene, associate marketing director for SDBC.
Sparkling Fruit2O is available in four flavors: Raspberry Lemon, Grape, Mixed Berry and Strawberry.
The original, zero-calorie Fruit2O pioneered the flavored water category in 1999 and it is a leader in the noncarbonated, nonenhanced segment in past 52-week dollar sales, consumer awareness and consumer loyalty, said the company.
Cincinnati-based SDBC is a leading producer of juice-based drinks in North America. Its brands include SunnyD citrus punch, Fruit2O flavored waters, Veryfine 100% juices and juice drinks and Elations dietary supplement for joint health.
Plano, Texas-based Dr Pepper Snapple Group is a leading producer of flavored beverages in North America and the Caribbean. With more than 50 brands, the company has six of the top 10 noncola soft drinks, and 13 of its 14 leading brands are No. 1 or No. 2 in their flavor categories, it said. In addition to flagship Dr Pepper and Snapple brands, the company's portfolio includes 7UP, A&W, Canada Dry, Clamato, Crush, Hawaiian Punch, Mott's, Mr. and Mrs. T mixers, Penafiel, Rose's, Schweppes, Squirt and Sunkist soda.
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